The AREF-MRC Towards Leadership Programme 2026/2027 for Emerging African Scientists (Fully Funded)

Application Deadline: September 6th, 2026 Applications are now open for the 2026/2027 AREF-MRC Towards Leadership Programme. The AREF Towards Leadership programme aims to empower talented, emerging scientists in Africa to compete successfully for UKRI MRC and other major funding opportunities in global health research. Together we are investing in talented African scientists in Africa, enhancing their global health research and leadership potential. The programme will run in March 2027 consisting of two residential workshops (opening and closing) and one virtual workshop. The curriculum is designed to support engage and enhance the participants’ capabilities and to empower talented, emerging scientists in Africa to compete successfully on a level playing field for UKRI MRC and other major funding opportunities in global health research. The programme is directed towards to winning grant funding, empowering effective teams, collaborating internationally, influencing stakeholders, and building rewarding research careers. Programme outline The Programme comprises the following elements: Collaboration between participating individuals Three inspiring and practical blended workshops at six-monthly intervals Supplementary webinars, tutorials, and online resources Baseline and end-of-programme assessments and evaluation Programme Timeline: The opening workshop is planned for 17-19 March 2027. Workshop 2 will be held virtually and is anticipated to run in September 2027. The closing workshop is anticipated for March 2028. Joining the Programme Entry to the Towards Leadership Programme is through an application process that will be rigorously and fairly reviewed to select the best candidates for the programme. For More Information: Visit the Official Webpage of the AREF-MRC Towards Leadership Programme